FastCasual reveals 10 most-read stories of 2023

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

The holidays are upon us and 2023 is almost over, which means it's time for us to reveal the year's most-read stories.

Gully Boyz: 2 cultures, 2 cuisines, 1 machine

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Gully Boyz, the first Indian and Pakistani restaurant in the fast casual space, aims to offer affordable and approachable South-Asian cuisine.

Boston Market's future is up in the air

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

December 18, 2023

The future of Boston Market is in jeopardy after owner Jignesh Pandya filed for personal bankruptcy on Dec. 8 with the Eastern District of Pennsylvania…

FastCasual accepting 2024 Top 100 Movers & Shakers nominations

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

The nomination deadline is Jan. 26

3 small fast casual brands proving catering technology is affordable

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

CEOs of Thai Chili2go, Dillas Quesadillas and Eatzi's Market & Bakery reveal how affordable catering technologies are helping to grow their businesses.

How Vicious Biscuit plans to conquer brunch

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

South Carolina-based Vicious Biscuit is taking its "Body by Biscuit" messaging and its $2.5 million AUVs cross-country with franchising opportunities.

Noodles & Co names former Panera president interim CEO

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

November 10, 2023

After reporting Tuesday that it was on its way to improving its financial performance, Noodles & Co announced Friday that CEO Dave Boennighausen was…

5 reasons to visit Kansas City for Restaurant Franchising and Innovation Summit

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

The Restaurant Franchising and Innovation Summit, produced by Networld Media Group, will host its eighth annual event there in Kansas City, March 24-26. The…

Garage-born Crimson Coward hitting 200 locations by 2027

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

By year's end, the brand will have nine stores spanning California, Michigan, Texas and Virginia and is looking for franchise partners to take the brand across…

Will the joint-employer ruling destroy restaurant franchising?

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

"The rule upends employment policy, adopting a far-fetched definition of 'employer' based on 'indirect or potential influence' of an employee and then fails to…

Why Veggie Grill CEO thinks downsizing will fuel growth

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Veggie Grill's plan for growth includes exploring franchising, menu enhancements and technology upgrades.

FastCasual accepting nominations for 2024 Brands to Watch

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

August 28, 2023

Just a few months ago, we celebrated the annual 2023 Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers, which recognizes the industry's most innovative companies…

20 years later: Pumpkin spice still rules

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Although it's too early to tell if all-things pumpkin will increase traffic this year, it's a likely outcome based on the past 20 years. Most chains have…

Will Japan-based Pepper Lunch dominate the US?

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Although the Japanese-based concept has only five restaurants in the U.S., it spans nearly 500 locations in 15 countries and plans to have 100 North American…

Hawaiian fast casual loses store to wildfires, raises funds for workers

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

L&L's store in Lahaina, Hawaii was lost to flames from the wildfires and its Honokowai location is temporarily closed due to no electricity or water. Nearly 2…

Introducing FastCasual's 2023 Perfect Pitchers

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Founders of Haven Hot Chicken, Mahana Fresh, Pizzawala, Pucci Brothers Fresh Italian and Sankranti Indian Kitchen will take the stage on Oct. 9 to pitch their…

Is cold the new hot at Starbucks?

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

August 3, 2023

The cold business at Starbucks is hotter than ever as sales of unheated drinks reached 75% of U.S. beverage sales during the chain's third quarter, which ended…

Shake Shack CFO: Operational improvements enhancing profitability

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

August 3, 2023

Despite higher than usual operating costs, New York-based Shake Shack Inc. reported Thursday a net income of $6.9 million and a profit of 16 cents for its 202…

Are Chipotle price increases back on the table?

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

July 27, 2023

Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. may be raising menu prices after noting food costs were up during Wednesday's second-quarter earnings call with investors. Total…

Fazoli's exploring AI ordering at drive-thru

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Doug Bostick, president of Fazoli’s, is testing drive-thru voice AI in 12 company restaurants.